The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has voiced concerns over the ongoing agitation in Rivers State during a thanksgiving ceremony for George Kelly Alabo.
He sought to address the nature of the agitation and dispel the notion that it is solely centered on the Ijaw community.
Wike emphasized that such perspectives lacked a comprehensive understanding of the political complexities in Rivers State.
During his address, Wike revealed that both he and Governor Sim Fubara received instructions from the President regarding the agitation.
However, Wike asserted that the Governor did not adhere to the guidance provided by the President.
This disclosure suggested a deviation from the agreed-upon course of action outlined by the President, contributing to the unfolding political situation in the state.
Wike expressed his dismay at the shift in approach, noting that when the peace resolution was initially pursued, there were no such fervent agitations.
He highlighted the emergence of flags and chants associated with the agitation, criticizing the change in tone from the initial discussions. This shift in behavior raised questions about the motivations behind the intensified agitation.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory conveyed the President’s involvement in the matter, indicating that the President privately communicated instructions to both him and Governor Fubara.
However, the Governor’s failure to implement these directives led to a reconsideration of the approach, with the President suggesting the involvement of a larger house.
He said, “When we wanted to go for it we were not shouting asawana, now they’re carrying flags and shouting asawana up and down. Are you people aware that Mr President actually called us privately and told us what to do, he didn’t do it and now Mr President then said okay, the larger house should come and they’re saying he does not have the constitutional right to do that.”
